Back Pain During Pregnancy

Women often experience back pain during pregnancy as a result of weight gain and hormonal changes that relax the ligaments in the pelvis. However, being pregnant doesn’t mean you have to put up with an aching back. These simple steps can help you to maintain a healthy life while you’re expecting.

Maintain proper postureThis is a practice that’s always good to follow, but becomes even more critical when you’re pregnant. “Good posture” means that you’re standing with your back straight, your shoulders squared, your chin up, your chest out, and your stomach in, which will create a straight line from your ear to your ankle and that’s ideal posture. This can be difficult at first, if your body has gotten used to resting in a bad posture. Pretend that an invisible cord is attached to your head, pulling it up into alignment with your spine.

Sleep on your sideSleeping on your back while pregnant increases the pressure on your spine, which may lead to back pain throughout the following day. By sleeping on your side, you can eliminate this problem. The best option is to favor your left side, as this also increases blood flow to your baby.

Stay activeWith all the new responsibilities and challenges that come with being pregnant, it can be tempting to forgo any exercise. But doing so will only weaken your back when it needs strength the most. Your doctor can explain what exercises and stretching activities will be best for you.

When lifting objects, make sure you do so properlyOf course, it’s best not to lift heavy objects alone at all, but even lighter burdens should be approached with care. To pick something up, squat down rather than bending at the waist, and use your legs, not your back, to do the lifting. This is good advice at any time, but especially when your back is already under stress from pregnancy.

Seek out a chiropractor and/or chiropractic therapyChiropractic treatment can relieve pregnancy-related back pain, as well as neck and joint complaints. If you’re experiencing any of these common issues, schedule a consultation with a local chiropractor to see if it chiropractic can provide relief for your pregnancy related discomfort.

About the author

Belltown Spine & Wellness, an integrated health and spinal rehabilitation center, has helped thousands of people over the past 22 years regain their health and vitality through their natural, integrated approach to health and wellness in the greater Seattle area.